Exercise 4.6. – We are all equal, but some are more equal than others

Procedure

1. The teacher divides the students up into groups no larger than six. The groups must be made up of an even number of students. Each group receives a sheet of paper and a marker.
2. He/she asks one half of the groups to draw a caricature of a social winner, the other half a caricature of a loser.
3. The teacher asks the groups to list the characteristics of their model: socio-economic level, profession, sex, ethnic group, leisure activities, choice of clothing, basic outlook, way of life, type of housing, consumer habits.
4. He/she asks the groups to exchange their drawings and interpret them.
5. The drawings are hung up on the wall. Each group is asked to interpret the drawing they have received to the whole class.
6. The “artists” comment on their intentions. By communicating the ideas behind the drawings and the effect of the drawings on the viewer, the students may be expected to touch on the following questions:
   • What are the main characteristics of success?
   • What are the main characteristics of failure?
   • What are the factors that make the difference between “winners” and “losers”?
   • Are the people represented from certain groups?
   • Do all people have the same chances of success, regardless of their social background?

Extension

What are the reasons for discrimination against, and exclusion of, people who are different because of their culture, origin, sexual behaviour, language, etc?

What are the reasons for inequality among humans? Is equality possible, and desirable, or not?